Oyster Handling & Care

 

Enjoy the Freshest Oysters – The Right Way

At Bar Harbor Oyster Co., we do everything possible to deliver fresh, flavorful oysters straight from the pristine waters of Maine. To ensure the best taste and safest experience, proper handling is key. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your oysters fresh and delicious from the moment they arrive to the last shuck.

 

Transporting Your Oysters

Keep them cold, but not submerged!

  • Always transport oysters on ice or ice packs to prevent bacterial growth.

  • Keep the oyster bag out of direct contact with freshwater melt—freshwater will kill them!

  • If using ice packs, wrap them in a towel to avoid direct contact with the oysters.

Pro Tip: Store oysters in a cooler if you’re traveling, especially during summer months.

Storing & Shelf Life

To maximize freshness and flavor, store oysters cold & properly positioned.

✔️ Ideal storage temperature: Below 45°F but above freezing
✔️ Keep them in an open container—oysters need airflow to stay alive
✔️ Never store them in water—placing them back in the ocean or any other water source is unsafe & illegal
✔️ For longer freshness, store them cup-side down in a tray or bowl to keep moisture in and reduce stress on the shell

Best enjoyed within a week, but properly stored oysters can last a couple of weeks in the fridge!

Shucking & Serving

The best part? Eating them! Whether you're serving them raw or cooked, follow these simple steps for a perfect experience:

1️⃣ Chill Before Shucking – Cold oysters shuck more easily. Place them on ice for at least 15 minutes before opening.
2️⃣ Shuck Within 45 Minutes of Serving – This ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
3️⃣ Check Before You Eat – Avoid oysters that are dry, have a strong odor, won’t close before shucking, or don’t fight to stay shut. These could be unsafe to eat.

SHUCKING TUTORIAL

Properly shucking an oyster makes a world of difference. With the right tools you can learn to shuck like a pro. It's so easy you can do it in a blizzard!

What to Do With Oyster Shells?

Once you've enjoyed your oysters, don't let those calcium-rich shells go to waste!

✅ Return them to the sea – They create habitat for young oysters, mussels, and marine life
✅ Use them for landscaping – Crushed oyster shells make great pathways or driveway material
✅ Get creative – They’re perfect for home decor, crafts, or even as plant bed toppers!

Fresh Oysters, The Right Way

At Bar Harbor Oyster Co., we take pride in providing top-quality, sustainably farmed oysters.

Proper handling ensures you enjoy them at their very best—fresh, briny, and delicious.

Got questions?